Exploring the Natural Wonders of Phong Nha-Ke Bang

Son River Serenity & Cave Mysteries

Today was a day of serene river journeys and thrilling cave explorations. Phong Nha-Ke Bang continues to surprise and enchant us with its blend of natural beauty and adventurous spirit. The family was eager to dive into the day's itinerary, and I must say, it was a day well-spent, filled with lasting memories and breathtaking sights.

Our morning began with a hearty breakfast at Bamboo Chopsticks. Elke and Maximilian were particularly excited about trying some local Vietnamese dishes, and I, of course, was keen to sample their vegan options, of which they had many. The restaurant had a lovely, welcoming atmosphere, and the staff were incredibly friendly. It's always a pleasure to start the day with a delicious meal and warm hospitality.


Discover authentic Vietnamese flavors at Bamboo Chopsticks in Phong Nha – where every meal tells a story.

After breakfast, we set off to Bờ bắc sông Son, the northern bank of the Son River. The air was crisp and refreshing, with a slight breeze rustling through the trees. The temperature was mild, hovering between 18°C and 22°C, making it perfect for a boat trip. The Son River itself is a sight to behold. Its emerald green waters wind through the limestone karst mountains, creating a landscape that feels both ancient and timeless. As we boarded our small boat, I couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation for the journey ahead. Maximilian, ever the photographer, was snapping pictures of everything, trying to capture the beauty of the river and its surroundings.


Discover the serene beauty of Bờ Bạc Sông Son in Phong Nha Kẻ Bàng, Vietnam, where lush landscapes and adventure await every traveler.

The boat ride along the Son River was incredibly peaceful. The gentle rocking of the boat, the stunning views of the karsts, and the quiet murmur of the water created a sense of tranquility that washed over us all. We passed by small villages nestled along the riverbanks, watching as locals went about their daily lives. Fishing boats bobbed gently on the water, and children waved enthusiastically as we passed. It was a glimpse into a simpler way of life, one that felt far removed from the hustle and bustle of Heidelberg. I found myself reflecting on my own life, my work restoring antique furniture, and the importance of taking time to appreciate the beauty of the world around us.

Sometimes, the greatest adventures are found in the quietest moments, in the gentle flow of a river, and in the hidden depths of a cave.

Our destination was Hang Trạ Ang, a cave known for its stunning natural formations and adventurous trekking opportunities. As we approached the cave entrance, I could feel a sense of excitement building within me. I had read about Hang Trạ Ang, but nothing could have prepared me for the reality of it. The entrance was a small opening in the side of a mountain, hidden behind a curtain of lush vegetation. It felt like stepping into another world.


Explore the captivating Hang Trạch Ang in Quang Binh, Vietnam - a natural wonder of caves and stunning landscapes for every adventurer's delight.

The trek to Hang Trạ Ang was an adventure in itself. We hiked through dense jungle, crossing streams and navigating rocky paths. The air was thick with humidity, and the sounds of the jungle surrounded us – the chirping of insects, the calls of birds, and the rustling of leaves. It was a sensory overload, but in the best possible way. Elke, ever the librarian, was fascinated by the local flora, pointing out different species of plants and explaining their uses. Maximilian, meanwhile, was busy documenting our journey, capturing the beauty of the jungle with his camera.

Inside Hang Trạ Ang, we were greeted by a world of darkness and wonder. The cave was filled with stalactites and stalagmites of all shapes and sizes, illuminated by our headlamps. The formations were truly breathtaking, like sculptures created by nature itself. We spent hours exploring the cave, marveling at its beauty and learning about its geological history. There was even an underground river flowing through the cave, adding to the sense of mystery and adventure. I must admit, the experience was a bit challenging at times, navigating the slippery rocks and tight spaces, but it was all worth it. The feeling of discovering something new, of witnessing the raw power and beauty of nature, was simply unparalleled.

For lunch, we stopped at Lantern Vietnamese Restaurant. The food was excellent, and the atmosphere was relaxed and inviting. I ordered a vegetarian dish, while Elke and Maximilian opted for some traditional Vietnamese fare. We all enjoyed our meals, savoring the flavors of Vietnam and reflecting on our adventures in Hang Trạ Ang. It was a perfect way to recharge before the next leg of our journey.


Savor authentic Vietnamese cuisine amidst the stunning landscapes of Phong Nha at Lantern Vietnamese Restaurant.

In the late afternoon, as the sun began to set, we decided to visit Cây Bàng Quán - Big Tree Restaurant for a drink. This charming beer garden is nestled amidst the natural beauty of Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park. Surrounded by towering trees and lush greenery, it was the perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploration. We enjoyed some local beers, sharing stories and laughter as the day drew to a close. The atmosphere was warm and friendly, and it felt like we were a world away from the stresses of everyday life.


Discover Cây Bàng Quán, a serene beer garden in Phong Nha-Kẻ Bàng National Park, where nature meets relaxation and local flavors come alive.

As I sit here now, writing this blog post, I can't help but feel grateful for the experiences we had today. Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park is a truly special place, a hidden gem that deserves to be explored and appreciated. The river journey, the cave exploration, the delicious food, and the warm hospitality – it all combined to create a day that I will never forget. And to share it all with my family made it even more special. It is these moments that make travel so rewarding, that create lasting memories and strengthen the bonds that tie us together.

Tomorrow, we plan to spend the day exploring more of Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, venturing deeper into its natural wonders. We'll start with breakfast at Phong Nha Vegan Restaurant, followed by a visit to a local shop, Đặc sản, cafe Hương Rừng, to pick up some souvenirs. I am particularly looking forward to dining at ARTIST'S ZONE for dinner. I have heard they have some very interesting dishes. I am sure it will be another day filled with adventure and discovery.

Until then, I bid you goodnight from Phong Nha. May your own travels be filled with as much joy and wonder as ours.